1.1.1 This NPG provides guidance in the use of the RF spectrum for Agency communications links and remote sensing purposes. Procedures relating to Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) are also presented, and requirements are defined for the support of future NASA programs that may require long-lead-time spectrum management initiatives. Responsibilities of concerned NASA personnel are defined in chapter 2.

1.1.2 For the purpose of this NPG, the RF spectrum is defined as the set of radio frequencies below, arbitrarily, about 1000 GHz. Also several terms used frequently have very specific, technical connotations for those familiar with the RF spectrum management discipline. A glossary of these terms is provided in Appendix A.

1.2.1 The U.S. policy, with regard to the use of properly authorized frequency bands, is stated in the Communications Act of 1934, as amended. In order to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Communications Act, OMB Circular No. A-11, Section 34.1, states that:

1.2.2 "A certification must be obtained by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, Department of Commerce that the RF required is available before you submit estimates for the development or procurement of major electronics systems (including all systems employing space satellite techniques)." (see http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/circulars/ )

1.2.3 NASA policies to be adhered to by all Agency spectrum users are given in NASA Policy Directive (NPD) 2570.5B, (see http://nodis3.gsfc.nasa.gov/library/main_lib.html ).

1.2.4 All NASA RF spectrum usage must be pursuant to specific assignments approved by the NASA Spectrum Manager, the AA for OSF, under the conditions specified in chapter 3, Section 3.7(c).

1.3.1 Internationally, the RF spectrum is allocated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) (see http://www.itu.int/) to various classes of service according to different regions of the world (see Figure 1-1). Within the United States and its Possessions, the RF spectrum is further allocated to non-Government and Government users. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), acting under the authority of Congress, is responsible for the allocation and assignment of frequencies to non-Government users (see http://www.fcc.gov). The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), acting under the authority of the President, are responsible for the allocation and assignment of frequencies to departments and agencies of the U.S. Government (see http://www.ntia.doc.gov). Descriptions of international and national spectrum management structures are contained in Appendices B and C.

1.3.2 NTIA performs its functions through the assistance of the Interdepartment Radio Advisory Committee (IRAC)^[1] that is also responsible for maintaining the National Table of Frequency Allocations. ^[2] Coordination between non-Government and Government users of the RF spectrum is accomplished through joint meetings of the FCC and the NTIA.

1.3.3 NASA responsibility for acquiring frequency allocations and providing assignment of frequencies is delegated to the AA for OSF. Normally, all allocations and assignments are made through the AA for OSF and are issued to NASA RF spectrum users through NASA Center Spectrum Managers (for NASA spectrum management points of contact, see http://nasa-spectrum.grc.nasa.gov).

Figure 1-1

Geographic Regions for Frequency Allocation of the Spectrum

The Spectrum Management Program Documentation Tree is shown in Figure 1-2. The tree shows the linkages between NASA spectrum management documentation and national rules and regulations.

Figure 1-2

NASA Spectrum Management Program Documentation Tree

^[1]The IRAC has been in constant session since 1922, NASA has been an active member since 1958.

^[2] See Chapter 4 of Manual of Regulations and Procedures for Federal Radio Frequency Management.